12 December 2013 – A peace dialogue in Twic town, Warrap State, today resulted in resolutions to embark on civilian disarmament, the creation of border courts and infrastructural development along the border.

“Make peace happen because without peace there can be no development,” said Abraham Onifade, the UNMISS Warrap State Coordinator at the end of the dialogue, adding that continuing inter-communal conflicts in the tri-state area are hampering efforts to develop the region.

The two-day Twic town meeting was aimed at promoting peace and enhancing security, as well as raising awareness about the government’s responsibility to protect civilians.

“Peace messaging, instead of preparation for destabilizing cattle raiding, should be the resolve of communities in this dry season and beyond,” said Mr. Onifade.

Participants from Gogrial East, Gogrial West and Twic counties in Warrap State and from Mayom and Abiemnom counties in Unity State attended the dialogue.

“We cannot and should not continue to kill ourselves after many of our heroes have lost their lives for this country,” said Zakaria Hou, Unity State’s Minister of Local Government. “We need to find mutual solutions, respect our lives, so that the international community can assist us to develop.”

Apart from resolutions on civilian disarmament, border courts and investments in infrastructure

participants also agreed to organize an annual forum for county commissioners, executive chiefs and governors from the states.

The meeting also established a seven-member committee that will, with the support of UNMISS, monitor the implementation of the agreed outcomes.